Happy Birthday, Ms. Jordan - 79 years

Jordan at Bob Hope's birthday party, 1978.

February 21 marks the 79th birthday of Ms. Jordan.  In honor of the occasion, here's some not-often seen and candid shots of Jordan enjoying herself.  We often think of the public face of Jordan and her serious demeanor and no-nonsense presence.  But she was also a woman who also loved to laugh, had a great sense of humor and was adored by those who knew her intimately. 

Jordan at an event, occasion unknown, ca. 1973-74.
Rep. Barbara Holtzman (who served with Jordan in the
Watergate Hearings) is on the far left. 

Jordan, partner Nancy Earl and unknown student, at Jordan's
Onion Creek home in Austin, ca. 1982.  Jordan and Earl
often threw end-of-semester parties for Jordan's students.

Jordan with unknown student at Jordan's Onion Creek home,
ca. 1981.

National Prayer Breakfast

Front of souvenir program.

Today marks the 62nd National Prayer Breakfast.  The National Prayer Breakfast (which is really a series of meetings, luncheons, and dinners) is a yearly event held in Washington, D.C., on the first Thursday of February each year, and has taken place since 1953.  Barbara Jordan had the honor of leading the prayer in 1978.  Here are some artifacts from her appearance. 

Jordan's itinerary for the event. 

Interior of souvenir program, from Jordan's collection.